There’s something special about walking up to a barbecue joint that smells like smoked meat and nostalgia all mixed together. For folks who’ve recently moved to Austin or are visiting for the first time, Leroy and Lewis Barbecue is often the first stop that comes highly recommended. Known for their Michelin star recognition, inventive Texas barbecue, and a deep commitment to sourcing meat from ethical Texas ranchers, Leroy and Lewis has carved out a name for itself as one of the most original barbecue spots in town.

If you're into slow-smoked brisket, creative side dishes, and a laid-back atmosphere that feels like you're hanging out with old friends, then you’ll probably want to put this place on your radar. The fact that they’ve grown from a food truck to a full-fledged restaurant is a testament to how much people love what they do.

Whether you're a local foodie or just passing through Austin, there’s a lot to unpack when it comes to Leroy and Lewis Barbecue. From their unique menu offerings to their farm-to-table philosophy, there’s more to this place than just great barbecue. So, let’s take a closer look at what makes this joint such a standout.

• Harold Ford Sr

Table of Contents

• A Brief History of Leroy and Lewis Barbecue
• What Makes Leroy and Lewis Barbecue Stand Out?
• Menu Highlights You Don’t Want to Miss
• Location, Hours, and How to Avoid the Line
• What People Are Saying About Leroy and Lewis
• Frequently Asked Questions

A Brief History of Leroy and Lewis Barbecue

Back in the early days, before the Michelin star and the long lines, Leroy and Lewis started as a food truck parked outside Cosmic Coffee in South Austin. It was a humble setup, just a couple of guys with a passion for barbecue and a dream to do something different.

Over the next seven years, the duo built a loyal following by focusing on quality, consistency, and a strong connection to local Texas ranchers. They weren’t just flipping brisket like everyone else—they were experimenting with lesser-known cuts like beef cheeks and flat iron steaks. That approach helped them stand out in a city already packed with barbecue joints.

Eventually, the food truck evolved into a full restaurant, and the rest is history. Today, Leroy and Lewis is a household name in Austin’s barbecue scene and continues to push the boundaries of what barbecue can be.

• Sunday Rose Kidman Urban

What Makes Leroy and Lewis Barbecue Stand Out?

So, what makes Leroy and Lewis different from the rest of the barbecue joints in Texas? Let’s break it down:

• Local sourcing: All meats come from Texas ranches that prioritize animal welfare and sustainable practices.
• Inventive menu: While most places stick to brisket, ribs, and sausage, Leroy and Lewis offers cuts you won’t find elsewhere—like beef cheeks and flat iron.
• Old-school hospitality: The team runs the place like a neighborhood joint, offering a warm, friendly vibe that feels like home.
• Pit tour experience: You can actually take a peek at where the magic happens and learn about the smoking process firsthand.

It’s not just about the food—it’s about the whole experience. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite or sitting down for a full meal, you’ll notice how intentional everything feels.

Menu Highlights You Don’t Want to Miss

When you walk up to the counter, the hardest part is deciding what to order. Here are a few fan favorites and must-try items:

Brisket

Of course, no barbecue spot would be worth visiting if the brisket wasn’t on point. Leroy and Lewis’s brisket is tender, smoky, and perfectly seasoned. It practically melts in your mouth.

Flat Iron Steak

This is one of the standout items on the menu. It’s juicy, rich, and a great alternative to brisket if you’re looking for something a little different.

Beef Cheeks

If you’ve never had beef cheeks before, this is a great place to start. They’re slow-cooked to perfection and have a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s hard to beat.

House-Made Sausage

Handcrafted and packed with flavor, the sausage here is one of the most popular items. It’s got just the right amount of spice and a snappy casing that makes every bite satisfying.

Sides

You can’t go wrong with any of the sides, but the mac and cheese and the smoked squash are especially worth mentioning. They bring a nice balance to the smoky meats and offer a fresh twist on classic barbecue fare.

If you're going with a group, consider ordering a few different meats and sharing. That way, you can get a taste of everything without feeling like you missed out.

Location, Hours, and How to Avoid the Line

Leroy and Lewis Barbecue is located just off Stassney Ln and Emerald Forest Dr in South Austin. It’s a bit off the beaten path, but definitely worth the trip.

Hours:

They typically open around 10:00 AM and stay open until they sell out. Weekdays can be a bit quieter than weekends, so if you want to avoid long lines, try to get there early—like, 10:30 or so.

Keep in mind that some menu items, like the flat iron and beef cheeks, tend to sell out quickly. So, if you have your heart set on those, don’t wait too long to show up.

They also offer free online booking through the Michelin Guide's website, which can help if you're planning a group visit or want to make sure you get in without a long wait.

And if you’re coming from downtown Austin, plan for a 15–20 minute drive. Parking can be a bit tight, but there’s usually space if you’re willing to walk a few extra steps.

What People Are Saying About Leroy and Lewis

With over 7,000 likes on Facebook and thousands of check-ins, Leroy and Lewis has built a solid reputation in the Austin food scene. Here’s what some folks are saying:

• “Best brisket I’ve ever had in my life. Hands down.”
• “They do things differently here, and it works. The flat iron is a game-changer.”
• “Loved the pit tour! Super informative and cool to see where the magic happens.”
• “The service is friendly, the vibe is chill, and the food is incredible.”

Many people also point out how fresh and ethically sourced the meats are, which aligns with their values and makes the experience feel even better. It’s not just about eating barbecue—it’s about supporting a restaurant that cares about where their food comes from.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Leroy and Lewis Barbecue have vegetarian options?

While the menu is meat-heavy, they do offer a variety of sides that are vegetarian-friendly. The smoked squash and potato salad are both popular choices.

Can I book a table in advance at Leroy and Lewis?

Yes, you can book online through the Michelin Guide's official website. It’s a great way to ensure you get seated without a long wait, especially on weekends.

Do they sell out of food regularly?

Yes, they do. Some items like the flat iron and beef cheeks often sell out by early afternoon. If you’re craving one of those, aim to get there early.

Final Thoughts and a Call to Action

There’s a reason Leroy and Lewis Barbecue has been featured in Texas Monthly’s top 50 barbecue joints and earned a Michelin star. From their local sourcing practices to their creative menu and friendly service, they’ve built something truly special.

If you're in Austin and haven’t checked them out yet, now’s the time. Whether you're a barbecue lover, a foodie, or just someone looking for a good bite to eat, Leroy and Lewis is worth the trip.

Learn more about Leroy and Lewis Barbecue on the Michelin Guide’s official website, and be sure to check out their menu and booking options before your next visit.

And if you're looking for more barbecue spots or food-related content, Learn more about the best barbecue in Austin on our site.